ACCESSIBLE HUNTING OPPORTUNITIES on North Carolina National Forests(updated 12-13-10)

(This information is in lew of the old Disabled Access Program on the States National Forests in which qualified handicapped sportsmen could check out a key for certain normally closed roads. At this time, this has not affected what the NCWRC does on it's State Owned Game Lands.)

In compliance with the November 2005 USDA Final Rule for Motorized Vehicle Recreation in National Forests and Grasslands, each national forest was required to identify and designate those roads, trails and areas that are open to motor vehicle use. Some national forests, including the National Forests in North Carolina, have already established systems of roads and trails designated and managed for motorized use. The new rule did not require those units to change existing plans. However, all national forests are required to publish motor vehicle use maps (MVUMs) and make them available to the public. These maps are legal documentation displaying the roads and trails that are open to public motor vehicle use. If a road or trail does not appear on the map, it is not open to public vehicular use.

In addition to open roads displayed on local MVUMs, each Ranger District is working to provide additional opportunities for hunters with disabilities. The goal of the National Forests in North Carolina is to provide a diversity of hunting opportunities for hunters of all abilities.

Some of the opportunities listed below are permanent, developed facilities such as blinds and designated parking. Other opportunities are less permanent, and will move around the districts as wildlife habitat and hunting opportunity change. This program is a work in progress and intends to be flexible over time to accommodate public and wildlife resource needs.